Let’s be honest—getting outside with just a baby can be a production. Add in a preschooler or two, and it can feel like a full-on expedition. As a mom of six and three of them being small children, I completely understand the desire to get out in the sunshine for your mental health and your kids’ energy levels, but also the feeling of, “Is it even worth it?”
It absolutely is. Fresh air helps babies nap better, older kids burn off steam, and grown-ups reset after another stressful day. The key is finding simple, creative ways to make it manageable—especially when you’re outnumbered.
Here’s how to make outdoor time doable (and even fun!) when you’ve got a baby and older kids in tow.
Getting Outside with Baby and Older Kids
1. Keep It Simple—and Close to Home
You don’t have to pack up for a full day adventure far from home to make outdoor time meaningful.
Start small, think:
- Front yard picnics
- Backyard bubble time
- A short walk to a local park
- Coloring with chalk on the sidewalk
If you are venturing from home, remember to choose places with bathrooms, shade, and quick exits when needed. It’s not about how far you go—it’s about getting outside together.
Doctor tip: Even 15–20 minutes of outdoor time improves mood and helps regulate sleep—for both kids and adults.
2. Use a Stroller or Carrier Strategically
When you’ve got a baby and a big kid, your hands are always full. That’s why a good stroller, wagon or baby carrier is your best friend.
- A stroller with a large basket gives you space for diapers, snacks, and water bottles. You can even find strollers to accommodate multiple children with an area for bigger kids to actually stand behind your little one.
- Baby friendly stroller wagons are also excellent for outdoor walks. They often include 3-point shoulder harnesses on both ends to help secure older infants and toddlers and have lots of room for storage. They work great for shopping, too.
- Try wearing your baby. A baby carrier keeps your arms free so you can push a swing or help your older child with a scooter. Plus, little ones usually love being cuddled up close to momma and may even sleep the whole time you are out and about.
Choose based on what feels easiest for you. And don’t be afraid to swap between the two mid-outing. Meaning, you should always bring your baby carrier with you just in case!
Stroller safety tips:
- Always use the stroller’s harness securely fastened - accidents can happen at anytime. Toddlers and babies should be secured in their stroller at all times using the safety belts.
- Always set the brakes of the stroller even if you are pausing just for a drink of water.
- Babies should not nap for extended periods in a car seat when it’s not properly secured in a base. Prolonged time in a car seat can restrict airflow and put pressure on developing bones.
- Use a stroller with a sunshade and avoid long walks in peak heat. Touch the seat to ensure it’s not too hot before placing your baby down, especially in summer.
Baby carrier safety tips:
Follow the T.I.C.K.S. Rule for Safe Babywearing
- Tight
- In view at all times
- Close enough to kiss
- Keep chin off chest
- Supported back
Choose the correct position:
- Newborns: Face inward with full head support and hips in an “M” position (knees higher than bottom).
- Older babies (4–6+ months): Can begin to face outward for short periods, as long as they have strong neck control.
- Toddlers: Back-carrying is great for independence and comfort on longer outings.
Limit wearing in hot weather. Carriers trap body heat—yours and baby’s. On warm days, dress baby in one light layer and take frequent breaks to cool down and check for signs of overheating (red skin, fussiness, sweating).
Support baby’s hips by using a carrier that supports your baby’s thighs from knee to knee. This protects developing hips and reduces the risk of hip dysplasia.
Avoid activities like bending over without supporting baby’s head or using a stove or hot liquids while baby is in the carrier—it’s a safety risk many parents don’t realize.
3. Keep Older Kids Engaged with Mini-Missions
Your toddler or preschooler may need more stimulation than “walk while baby naps,” so give them a job or a mission:
- Hunt for five different colors in nature
- Collect small sticks to build a mini wooden house at home
- Pretend you’re on a safari or a treasure hunt
- Play I Spy
- Bring a push toy for them for stability and fun while walking
These little games turn ordinary walks into adventures—without needing much prep or gear.
4. Embrace the “Yard Hang”
Not every outdoor experience needs structure. Some of the best moments come from simply laying out a blanket and letting everyone do their thing.
- Baby can have tummy time or kick around in the shade
- Big kids can draw with sidewalk chalk or dig in a patch of dirt
- You can sit back with your coffee (even if it’s cold)
You’re still “doing something,” even if it looks like a whole lot of relaxing.
5. Bring Snacks. Always.
Outdoor snacks feel special—and they buy you time. From mom to mom, there is nothing worse than a hungry kiddo with no snacks readily available.
Pack a mix of easy-to-eat options like:
- Fruit puree squeezable pouches (Careful with these, be sure to read the ingredient label for added sugars)
- String cheese
- Carrot sticks
- Boiled Eggs
- Crackers or toddler-friendly granola bars
Bring enough for the toddler and for yourself. A well-timed snack can turn a meltdown into a happy picnic.
6. Go with a Friend or Family Member
Even just one extra adult can make a huge difference in managing multiple kids outdoors. Plus, it makes the outing feel more like a social event for you too.
7. Give Yourself Grace
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, someone cries, someone poops, an older sibling causes the younger one to lose it and you have to head back five minutes after you get outside. That’s normal. It’s not a failure—it’s real life with little kids.
Every small outing builds your confidence—and your kids' memories. Remember, you are doing great Mom. We all know as parents, things just don’t normally go as planned when it comes to kids being involved.
Plan for the Unexpected
Do yourself a favor and know that things likely will not go exactly as planned and that is okay. Be ready for the unexpected and do your best to calmly pivot as needed.
Getting outside doesn’t need to be elaborate to be effective. Sunshine, fresh air, and a change of scenery do wonders for babies, older kids, and parents alike. Whether you’re walking around the block, tossing a ball in the yard, or just stepping outside for a few deep breaths—you’re investing in your family’s well-being.
At Northwest Family Clinics, we’re here to support your whole family—from newborn to teenager, and every stage in between. If you ever have questions about sleep, sunscreen, screen time, or just what’s normal during these busy early years—we’re always happy to help.
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